Czech ambassador attends West church service

By Joe HolleyHouston Chronicle :
April 21, 2013

On the morning of the fourth day since the people of West lost 14 of their neighbors, including 10 first responders, many residents sought strength and solace in their houses of worship.

In the predominantly Czech-American town of about 2,800, where about 85 percent of the population is Roman Catholic, the pews were full at St. Mary's Church of the Assumption.

About a thousand worshippers, including the Czech ambassador to the United States, heard Bishop Joe S. Vasquez of the Catholic Diocese of Austin urge them “to receive strength and consolation -- and to give it.”

He also reminded them not to rush the healing process. “Let the Lord carry you on his shoulders,” he said. “Let the Lord heal you.”

At the conclusion of the mass, West Mayor Tommy Muska told the worshippers that “the city's getting back.” Neighborhoods cordoned off were being systematically re-opened, he said.

“We're very fortunate, if that makes any sense,” Muska said. “God does listen to our prayers.”

He said a FEMA official told him he couldn't believe there weren't more fatalities.

“There's one miracle I can tell you about,” the mayor said. “Jimmy Holecek's chickens survived.”

The chickens were in their pen about 50 yards from the fertilizer plant when it exploded. They're all safe and sound at the Waco Humane Society.